MUSCAT: Oman is set to become the focal point of the global hockey community once again, as it prepares to host the inaugural edition of the FIH Hockey Nations Cup 2 next year.
From February 17 to 23, 2025 teams from around the world will gather in Oman, competing in a thrilling tournament that offers the winning team the chance to advance to the FIH Hockey Nations Cup - a pathway to the FIH Pro League, the sport’s pinnacle of competition.
For the host nation, this is an opportunity not only to compete but also to showcase its capabilities in organising high-calibre events. The Nations Cup is likely to feature eight formidable teams, including Egypt, Chile, Scotland, Austria, Poland, the USA, China, and Oman.
Each team arrives with its own aspirations, but only one will earn the prized promotion to the Nations Cup.
Hosting the Nations Cup 2 is a natural step forward for Oman, which has been making its mark on the international hockey scene. Earlier this year, Oman successfully hosted the FIH Hockey 5s World Cup and the Paris Olympics Qualifiers, earning widespread praise.
The FIH Hockey Nations Cup 2 promises to showcase skill, grit, and national pride. Fans can look forward to a week of exciting matches.
For Oman’s players, it’s a rare opportunity to face off with some of the best teams in the world, an invaluable experience that will shape the future of Omani hockey.
Junior Asia Cup from November 11 in Muscat
The country is also preparing to host the Junior Asia Cup for both men and women from November 11 at Hockey Arena in Al Amerat, reinforcing its standing as a prime destination for top-level sporting events in the Middle East.
For the Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2024, the qualified teams are: Bangladesh, China, Chinese Taipei, India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Oman, Pakistan, and Thailand.
The Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2024 will feature: Bangladesh, China, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong China, India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
With each passing event, Oman is forging a legacy as a premier host for international tournaments, shining a spotlight on the nation’s passion for sports and its growing influence on the world stage.
Earlier on Friday, during the 49th statutory FIH Congress, the FIH announced Croatia as the host for the FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup in February 2025.
India has been selected to host the FIH Junior World Cup for Men in December 2025.